Book: Perspectives on Children’s Spiritual Formation

Michael J. Anthony, Professor of Christian Education at Talbot School of Theology is the author of Perspectives on Children’s Spiritual Formation (Broadman & Holman, 2006) presents in counterpoint form four contemporary views of children’s spiritual formation and four related methods of Christian Education.

Each chapter is written by a prominent person(s) representing his or her view. Contributors also respond to the other viewpoints. Views include:

• the contemplative-reflective model (cultivating a quiet, worshipful spirit)
• the instructional-analytic model (involving child evangelism and Bible memorization)
• the pragmatic participatory model (focusing on high-energy activities, often seen in mega-churches), and
• the media-driven active-engagement model (using a video-based curriculum with limited teacher training).

Aside from the informative chapters that review each model, the author’s Introduction, “Putting Children’s Spirituality in Perspective,” in which he offers a paradigm of children’s spiritual formation, is a “must read” for anyone working with children in the congregational setting, pastors, teachers, staff, and parents. Recommended.